e spoke rather lightly, Mr. Ford little realized how soon the
time was to come when the outdoor girls were to prove their sterling
worth in a peculiar manner.

"Well, things are certainly taking a queer turn," said Grace as she
looked at the scribbled letter of her brother, so strangely forwarded to
them. "There is no telling how long ago this was written. Poor Will is
probably having a hard time this very minute."

"He probably is if he's at work in a turpentine camp," said Mr. Ford.
"It is no easy work, and it is no wonder the contractors have to take
criminals, and fairly kidnap their helpers. Then they have to literally
mount guard over them to force them to remain. But I must start things
moving to aid Will."

Letters were written to Uncle Isaac, to the planter who had so kindly
forwarded the letter, and to various authorities.

"But you girls must not let this interfere with your trip, nor with the
enjoyment of it," said Mr. Ford, who had told his wife something of the
truth, but not enough to cause her to worry. He said they had word from
Will, and hoped soon to have him home. And Mrs. Ford, who leaned much on
her husband and daughter, was more content than she had been. "Get
ready, Grace," said her father, "and enjoy your winter in the South."

"I certainly don't enjoy a winter in the North," she replied. "Girls,
did you see my chocolates?"

"Hopeless! Hopeless!" murmured Mollie, with a smile, as she found the
confections on the mantel.

Preparations for the Florida trip went on apace. The girls were so busy
sorting out what clothes they were going to take, and having new gowns
made that, for a time, they almost forgot about Will.

Though Mr. Ford had set in motion various forces, no definite word had
yet been received. But they were hoping that every day would bring some
message. Uncle Isaac wrote that he was doing all he could.

Frank Haley, Will's school chum, and Allen Washburn, the young lawyer,
were very anxious to start off and make a search for their friend. But
Mr. Ford, though deeply grateful to them, thought it might complicate
matters. So, much against their desire, the two young men were forced to
remain in Deepdale.

"Though we may take a run down and see you," said Allen to Betty a few
days before the one set for the departure. "Would you mind?"

"We shall be very glad to see you," she answered, rather
non-committally.

"We?" he asked, pointedly.

"Oh, of course I meant that I woul